At least 64 million people in the world are estimated to live with heart failure. In Portugal, this serious, progressive and incurable disease affects about 4% of the population and is expected to increase by 50 to 70% by 2030.

Therefore, and on the occasion of Heart Month, the campaign 'The place of the heart is at home' recalls the importance of raising awareness of cardiovascular diseases, namely heart failure, which, according to the Portuguese Society of Cardiology (SPC), affects more than 700,000 Portuguese people over the age of 50.

To maintain the proper functioning of the heart, the SPC advocates that "there are five precautions we should adopt to improve cardiovascular health". Namely:

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1- Eating a healthy diet can help relieve symptoms and slow the progression of heart failure. Alcohol, salt and fats should be avoided. Vegetables, fruit, fiber, low-fat dairy products, lean meat and fish are essential in your diet, so that the body has the necessary nutrients;

2- Exercising regularly is a habit that should be part of your routine. The body needs activity and including a walk in your day can make a difference. Even people who live with heart failure should do light exercise to relieve symptoms and maintain their well-being;

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3- Controlling your weight is an essential factor. Heart failure is usually associated with sudden changes in weight that may indicate changes in health status. Therefore, it is necessary to pay attention to your weight in order to keep it regular and within the values indicated according to your height and body mass;

4- Quitting smoking will bring many benefits to your health. This happens because smokers have a higher cardiovascular risk and tobacco can aggravate existing lesions in the heart muscle, making it even more difficult for the heart to transport blood to all parts of the body;

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5- Social and emotional support is essential. Family and friends play a key role in helping to follow the treatment plan and even motivating lifestyle changes. In addition, social contacts are important to reduce stress and anxiety, as well as to create a support network.

For those who live with heart failure, the heart has not stopped, but it also cannot maintain the effort necessary to adequately pump blood to all parts of the body. There are treatment options available which, combined with a healthier lifestyle based on the care mentioned above, contribute to better disease management and quality of life for patients.

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